CURRENT MISSION

I want to share my enthusiasm for all the differences in this world that make it unique and special.

ABOUT ME

I want to enhance life on this planet, not degrade it. I have stepped away from my professional paid career and now focus my time on my family which includes two grandsons, helping new immigrant families in my hometown and volunteering out of country.

PHILOSOPHY

The Spanish word 'sympatica' basically describes a funny person who is friendly and open towards people...someone who inspires others with the freedom to be who they are, without fear of being judged. I wish to be that person. I believe it is important to treat my fellow beings, fellow living things and the world in general with love, honesty, and respect. I share with you "Ultreya", the ancient pilgrim salute for "Onward".

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

My husband and I have been hosts on several occasions and seem to fill a niche for those who need a longer stay or are traveling in a bigger group. Unless we can help in an emergency situation, we are not interested in one night stays. We have busy lives so prefer at least 48 hours notice. We do not accept visitors who cannot provide references from friends, family or fellow Couchsurfers.

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

Enjoyed a fabulous Couchsurfing experience in Australia for our first experience as guests.

Interests

I love life off the beaten track! I enjoy people watching and love to learn about new cultures; the food, language and customs. I enjoy cooking, reading, traveling, the outdoors and the list goes on.... I am an interested person, not to be confused with nosey (a joke with my daughters)

• dogs
• dining
• cooking
• reading
• traveling
• outdoor activities
• track and field
• languages
• volunteering
• beaches
• lakes

Music, Movies, and Books

I'm not generally a big fan of the Hollywood block busters, prefer independent film; same deal with music.I participate in 2 bookclubs because they introduce me to a wide range of authors and keeps me out of the easy pick or 'rut'.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

1 Day experience-Hot air balloon ride with my husband in Cappadocia, Turkey Several week experience-volunteer in Peru with my husband and solo in Mexico.

Teach, Learn, Share

Languages

What I Can Share with Hosts

We live in the Great Lakes area, about an hour from Lake Erie and Lake Huron beaches. The wonder of Niagara Falls is a 3 hour drive from our home. Toronto, a large multi-cultural city is an easy 2 hours by car, bus or train. We frequently drive to the farmland surrounding us and have a particular interest in the Mennonite community that still use traditional farming techniques with no hydro.
There are several bus routes near our home that can get you easily to the university, college or downtown for entertainment and fun.
We have a rambunctious dog who loves to play and go for walks. She is hypo-allergenic and non-shedding.

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Bahamas, China, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Greece, Jamaica, Mexico, Netherlands, Peru, Portugal, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Canada, Germany, United Kingdom